USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service

Treatment Manual

Some processes, equipment, and materials described in this manual may be patented. Inclusion in this

manual does not constitute permission for use from the patent owner. The use of any patented invention in

the performance of the processes described in this manual is solely the responsibility of the user. APHIS

does not indemnify the user against liability for patent infringement and will not be liable to the user or to any

third party for patent infringement.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the

basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status,

parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because all or

part of any individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited bases

apply to all programs). Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of

program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202)

720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office of Civil

Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or

(202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

When using pesticides, read and follow all label instructions.

Interim Edition Issued 2023

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual TOC-1

Treatment

Manual

Contents

TOC-1-1

Figures LOF-1-1

LOF-1-1

Tables LOT-1-1

LOT-1-1

Introduction 1-1-1

1-1-1

Chemical Treatments 2-1-1

Fumigants 2-2-1

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide 2-3-1

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide—Tarpaulin Fumigation 2-4-1

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide—Chamber Fumigation 2-5-1

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide—Ship Fumigation for Emergency

Situations 2-6-1

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide—Structure Fumigation 2-7-1

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide—Special Procedures for Container Fumiga-

tions Without a Tarpaulin 2-8-1

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide—Closed-door Container Fumigation 2-9-1

Fumigants—Sulfuryl Fluoride 2-10-1

Fumigants—Phosphine 2-11-1

Aerosols 2-12-1

Dips 2-13-1

Dusts 2-14-1

Sprays 2-15-1

Nonchemical Treatments 3-1-1

Overview 3-1-1

Heat 3-2-1

Heat – Hot Water Immersion 3-3-1

Heat – Steam Treatments 3-4-1

Heat – Vapor Heat and Forced Hot Air 3-5-1

Heat – Forced Hot Air – Niger Seed 3-6-1

Cold Treatment (CT) 3-7-1

Irradiation 3-8-1

Residue Monitoring 4-1-1

Collecting, Packaging, and Shipping 4-1-1

Treatment Schedules 5-1-1

Index 5-1-1

TOC-2 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

T100 - Schedules for Fruits, Nuts, and Vegetables 5-2-1

T200 - Schedules for Propagative Plant Material 5-3-1

T300 - Schedules for Miscellaneous Plant Products 5-4-1

T400 - Schedules for Miscellaneous Products 5-5-1

T500 - Schedules for Plant Pests or Pathogens 5-6-1

T600 - Controlled Atmosphere Temperature Treatment System 5-7-1

D301 - Schedules for Domestic Movement of Regulated Articles 5-8-1

Certifying Facilities 6-1-1

Overview 6-1-1

Certification of Vacuum Fumigation Chambers 6-2-1

Certifying Normal Atmospheric Fumigation Chambers 6-3-1

Certification of Cold Treatment 6-4-1

Certification of Hot Water Immersion Facilities 6-5-1

Certification of Niger seed Treatment Facilities 6-6-1

Certification of Forced Hot Air and Vapor Heat Treatment Facilities 6-7-

Certifying Irradiation Treatment Facilities 6-8-1

Certifying Facilities for the Heat Treatment of Firewood 6-9-1

Hazard Communication Standard 7-1-1

Safety Data Sheets 7-1-1

Emergency Aid and Safety 7-2-1

Guidelines for Managing Pesticide Spills 7-2-1

Equipment 8-1-1

8-1-1

Glossary Glossary-1-1

Glossary-1-1

Appendix A A-1-1

Forms A-1-1

Appendix B B-1-1

Coast Guard Regulations B-1-1

Appendix C C-1-1

Conversion Tables C-1-1

Appendix D D-1-1

APHIS Certified Treatment Facilities and Conveyances D-1-1

Appendix E E-1-1

Reference Guide to Commercial Suppliers of Treatment and Related Safety

Equipment E-1-1

Appendix F F-1-1

EPA Crop Groups F-1-1

Appendix G G-1-1

Respirator Protection Information G-1-1

Index G-1-1

G-1-1

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual LOF-1

Treatment

Manual

Figures

Figure 2-4-1 Container Arrangement in Two Rows with Both Doors

Open 2-4-14

Figure 2-4-2 Container Arrangement in Two Rows With One Door Open 2-

4-14

Figure 2-4-3 Example of the Position

of Gas Sampling Tubes (Side

View) 2-4-18

Figure 2-4-4 Typical Break Bulk Arrang

ement with Fans, Leads, Introduction

Line, Padding, and Sand Snakes 2-4-21

Figure 2-4-5 Formula for Calculating MB Dosage for Tarpaulin

Fumiga

tions 2

-4-25

Figure 2-4-6 Formula for Determining the Amount of Gas to Add to Sched-

ules Not

Equivalent to T101-a-1 2-4-33

Figure 2-4-7 Formula for Determining the Amount of Gas to Add to Sched-

ules Equ

ivalent to T101-a-1 2

-4-34

Figure 2-4-8 Formula to Calculate Air Exchange Rate (AER) 2

-4-40

Figure 2-5-1 Formula for Calculating MB Dosage for Chamber

Fumiga

tions 2-5

-9

Figure 2-6-1 Formula for Calculating MB Dosage for Vessel

Fumiga

tions 2

-6-10

Figure 2-6-2 Formula for Determining the Amount of Gas to Add for Vessel

Fumiga

tion 2-6-13

Figure 2-8-1 Formula for MB Calculating Dosage for

Container Fumigations

Without a Tarpaulin 2-8-1

Figure 2-8-2 Formula for Determining the Amount of Gas to Add for Sched-

ules Not

T101-a-1 Equivalent and Conducted in a Container

Without a Tarpaulin 2-8-2

Figure 2-8-3 Formula for Determining the Amount of Gas to Add For T101-a-

1 Equ

ivalent Schedules for Container Fumigations Without a

Tarpaulin 2

-8-22

Figure 2-8-4 Ductwork configuration for aeration of untarped containers: full

ads (top) and partial loads (bottom) 2

-8-28

Figure 2-9-1 Diagram of placement of tempe

rature sensors, represented by

a star 2-9-8

Figure 2-9-2 Formula for Calculating MB Dosage for

Closed-Door Container

Fumigations 2

-9-15

Figure 2-9-3 Formula for Determining the Amount of Gas to Add to Closed-

Door Con

tainerized Cargo 2-9-20

Figure 2-9-4 Duct work configuration for a

eration of closed-door containers:

full loads (top) and partial loads (bottom) 2-9-24

Figure 2-11-1 Diagram of ECO

FUME

Gas Cylinder 2-11-9

Figures

LOF-2 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Figure 2-11-2 Diagram of One Type of Dispensing Equipment for

ECO2FUME 2-1

1-11

Figure 2-11-3 Diagram of One Type of Blending Equipment for

VAPORPH3OS 2-11-1

Figure 2-11-4 Diagram of VAPORPH

and Forced Air Blending

Equipment 2-1

1-17

Figure 2-12-1 Formula for Calculating Aerosol Spray Time in Specific Areas of

Aircraft 2-12-2

Figure 2-12-2 Preparing to Dispense a Partial Can of 2% d-phenothrin + 2%

permethrin 2

-12-7

Figure 2-12-3 Preparing to Dispense a Full Can of 2% d-phenothrin + 2%

permethrin 2

-12-7

Figure 2-13-1 Example of % Concentrate From Puma® Label (EPA #5813-

100

) 2-1

3-5

Figure 2-13-2 Formula to Determine Total Parts of Water to Prepare a Bleach

Disinfectant 2-13

-5

Figure 3-7-1 Proper Placement of Pulp Sensor within Larger Fruit 3-7-7

Figure 3-7-2 Proper Placement of Pulp Sensor within Smaller Fruit 3-7-7

Figure 3-7-3 Fruit Stack with Middle Row Temperature Probe

Placement 3-7-9

Figure 3-7-4 40-foot Refrigerated Container with

18 Pallets of Fruit (not

drawn to scale) 3-7-1

Figure 3-7-5 Proper Placement of Cardboard Between the Last Pallet Row of

Fruit and

the Back Doors of the Container 3-7-10

Figure 6-3-1 Formula to Calculate Air Exchange Rate (AER) 6-3

-7

Figure 6-8-1 Flow Diagram for Plan Approva

l Application for Irradiation Facil-

ities in Countries Other Than the United States 6-8-3

Figure 7-2-1 Abbreviated Spill Plan, Personal Re

ference Card (Wallet-

size) 7-2-2

Figure 7-2-2 Emergency Contacts for Pesticide Spills 7-2

-3

Figure 7-2-3 Poison Control Center 7-2

-4

Figure 7-2-4 Medical Emergency Facility 7-2

-4

Figure 7-2-5 Federal Aviation Administration (FFA)

Office 7-2-5

Figure 7-2-6 Community-Right-To-Know or Emergency Planning Coordina-

tor (

Fire Marshall) 7-2-5

Figure 7-2-7 Fish and Game Department 7-2

-6

Figure 7-2-8 Regional Veterinary Services (VS) Office 7-2

-6

Figure 7-2-9 Regional Safety

and Health Coordinator 7-2-6

Figure 7-2-10 Local Police 7-2

-7

Figure 7-2-11 Local Hazardous Waste Official 7-2

-7

Figure 8-1-1 Fumiscope

Models D, 4.0, and 5.1 8-1-2

Figure 8-1-2 Fumiscope® Model 5.1 8-1

-3

Figure 8-1-3 Spectros Methyl Bromide Monitor 8-1-9

Figure 8-1-4 Methyl Bromide Volatilizer Coil 8-1-1

Figure 8-1-5 Tubing Specifications 8-1

-16

Figure 8-1-6 Auxiliary Pump 8-1-19

Figure 8-1-7 Example of Pressure Measurement in an Open-arm

Manometer 8-1-20

Figures

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual LOF-3

Figure 8-1-8 Example of U Tube Manometer 8-1-22

Figure 8-1-9 Example of a Water Trap 8-1

-26

Figure 8-1-10 Example of an Approved Fan 8-1-2

Figure A-1 APHIS Form 205-R, Instructions a

nd Worksheet for Calibrating

Portable Temperature Sensors A-1-3

Figure A-2 APHIS Form 206-R, Test of the Accuracy of the Permanent

RTD Sensors In

stalled in Hot Water Tanks A-1-4

Figure A-3 APHIS Form 207-R, Sensor Location Diag

ram Fruit Weights

and Pulp Temperatures A-1-5

Figure A-4 APHIS Form 208, Performance Test for Mango Hot Water Im-

mersion Tan

k A-1-6

Figure A-5 Calibration of Temperature Probes (Cold Treatment) A-1-7

Figure A-6 Location of Temperature Sensors in Containerized Cargo (Cold

Trea

tment) A-1-8

Figure A-7 Example of PPQ Form 429A, Fumigation Record, With Tarpau-

lin (front) A-1-10

Figure A-8 Example of PPQ Form 429A, Fumigation Record, With Tarpau-

lin (back) A-1-11

Figure A-9 Example of PPQ Form 429B, Fumigation Record, Without Tar-

pau

lin (front) A-1-13

Figure A-10 Example of PPQ Form 429B, Fumigation Record, Without Tar-

pau

lin (back) A-1-

Figure A-11 Example of PPQ Form 519, Compliance Agreement A-1

-17

Figure A-12 Example of PPQ Form 52

3, Emergency Action Notification A-

1-20

Figure A-13 Example of PPQ Form 449-R, Temperature Recording Calibra-

tion Report A-1-30

Figure A-14 Example of PPQ Form 203, Foreign

Site Certificate of Inspec-

tion and/or Treatment A-1-32

Figure A-15 Example of PPQ Form 556, In

Transit Cold Treatment Clear-

ance Report A-1-35

Figure A-16 Worksite Specific Respira

tory Protection Plan—Template (page

1 of 8) A-1-36

Figure A-17 Worksite Specific Respira

tory Protection Plan—Template (page

2 of 8) A-1-37

Figure A-18 Worksite Specific Respira

tory Protection Plan—Template (page

3 of 8) A-1-38

Figure A-19 Worksite Specific Respira

tory Protection Plan—Template (page

4 of 8) A-1-39

Figure A-20 Worksite Specific Respira

tory Protection Plan—Template (page

5 of 8) A-1-40

Figure A-21 Worksite Specific Respira

tory Protection Plan—Template (page

6 of 8) A-1-41

Figure A-22 Worksite Specific Respira

tory Protection Plan—Template (page

7 of 8) A-1-42

Figure A-23 Worksite Specific Respira

tory Protection Plan—Template (page

8 of 8) A-1-43

Figure G-1 Approved Half Face Respirators G-1-2

Figures

LOF-4 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Figure G-2 Approved Full Face Respirators G-1-3

Figure G-3 Approved Organic Vapor/Acid Gas/P100 Cartridges G-1-3

Figure G-4 Approved SCBA G-1-3

Figure G-5 Approved AirHawk Ultra Elite Spectacle Kit-Sidewire G-1-4

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual LOT-1

Treatment

Manual

Tables

Table 1-1-1 How to Use Decision Tables 1-1-6

Table 1-1-2 Example of a FIFRA Section 18 Exemption Treatment

Sch

edule 1-1

-9

Table 1-1-3 Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the T

reatment

Manual 1-1

-9

Table 2-2-1 Properties of Gaseous Phases of Fumigants 2-2-5

Table 2-3-1 List of Commodities Covered by FIFRA Section 18

Exemption 2-3-3

Table 2-4-1 Determine Reporting Requirements 2-4-7

Table 2-4-2 Determine the Number of Temperature Sensors 2-4

-9

Table 2-4-3 Determining Number and Placement of Circulation Fans for

Tarp

ed Break Bulk Cargo 2-4-16

Table 2-4-4 Determine Whether to Use Commodity or Air Temperature for

Determining Dosage Rate

for Nonpulpy Commodities 2-4-22

Table 2-4-5 Determine the Need to Add Gas and Adjust Exposure 2-4-3

Table 2-4-6 Determine the Extended Exposure Period for

Non-equivalent

Schedules 2-4-33

Table 2-4-7 Determine Gas Concentration Values a

nd Corrections for Fruits

and Vegetables at the 30-minute Reading of T101-a-1 or Equiv-

alent Schedules 2-4-36

Table 2-4-8 Determine Gas Concentration Values a

nd Corrections for Fruits

and Vegetables at the 2-Hour Reading of T101-a-1 or Equiva-

lent Schedules 2-4-37

Table 2-4-9 Determine Responsibility for Aerating the Commodity 2-4

-39

Table 2-4-10 Determine the Aeration Procedure 2-4

-39

Table 2-4-11 Determine When to Release the Commodity for Nonsorptive,

Conta

inerized Cargo 2

-4-41

Table 2-4-12 Determine When to Release the Commodity for Nonsorptive,

Noncontainerized Carg

o—Outdoors 2-4-4

Table 2-4-13 Determine When to Release the Commodity for Nonsorptive,

Noncontainerized Carg

o—Indoors 2

-4-43

Table 2-4-14 Determine Number of Fans for Aeration of Fresh Fruits, Vege-

tab

les, and Cut Flowers 2-4

-44

Table 2-4-15 Determine When to Release the Commodity After Aeration of

Fresh Fruits,

Vegetables, and Cut Flowers—Indoors or

Outdoors 2

-4-45

Table 2-4-16 Determine when to Release the Commodity for Sorptive, Non-

containerized Cargo

—Outdoors 2-4-46

Table 2-4-17 Determine When to Release the Commodity for Sorptive, Non-

containerized Cargo

—Indoors 2-4

-46

Tables

LOT-2 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Table 2-4-18 Determine When to Release the Commodity for Sorptive Com-

modities in Containers—Indoors 2

-4-48

Table 2-4-19 Determine when to Release the Commodity for Sorptive Com-

modities in Conta

iners—Outdoors 2-4-4

Table 2-5-1 Determine Whether to Use Commodity or Air Temperature for

Determining Dosage Rate 2-5-9

Table 2-5-2 Determine the Responsibility for Aerating the Commodity

Durin

g Chamber Fumigations 2-

5-11

Table 2-5-3 Determine the Aeration Procedure for Chamber

Fumiga

tions 2

-5-11

Table 2-5-4 Determine When to Release the Commodity After NAP

Fumiga

tion 2-5-1

Table 2-5-5 Determine When to Release the Commodity After Vacuum

Fumiga

tion 2-5-1

Table 2-6-1 Determine Time for Extended Exposure 2-6-14

Table 2-8-1 Responsibilities for Approving Tarpless Container

Fumiga

tions 2-8

-3

Table 2-8-2 Determine Whether to Use Commodity or Air Temperature for

Determining Dosa

ge Rate For Nonpulpy Commodities 2-8-

Table 2-8-3 Determine the Need to Add Gas and Adjust Exposure 2-8-

Table 2-8-4 Determine the Extended Exposure Period to Commodities that

are

Not T101-a-1 Equivalent 2

-8-21

Table 2-8-5 Determine Gas Concentration Values a

nd Corrections for Fruits

and Vegetables at the 30-Minute Reading 2-8

-24

Table 2-8-6 Determine Gas Concentration Values a

nd Corrections for Fruits

and Vegetables at the 2-Hour Reading 2-8-25

Table 2-8-7 Determine Responsibility for Aerating the Commodity for Tarp-

ss Container Fumigation 2-8-26

Table 2-9-1 Determine the Extended Exposure Period for Closed-Door Con-

tainerized Carg

o 2-9

-20

Table 2-10-1 Effect of Hose Inside Diameter on Rate of Gas Introduction

thro

ugh a 25-Foot Hose (approximates, depending on cylinder

pressure) 2-1

0-4

Table 2-10-2 Effect of Hose Length on Rate of Gas Introduction Through a 1/

8-In

ch Inside Diameter Hose 2

-10-4

Table 2-11-1 NIOSH Recommended Respiratory Protection When Applying

Phosphine 2

-11-7

Table 2-11-2 Amount of Phosphine Liberated by Various Products 2-1

1-8

Table 2-11-3 Phosphine Residue Tolerances 2-1

1-31

Table 2-13-1 Common Products Dilution Ratio to Add to 1 Part Bleach 2-

13-6

Table 3-4-1 Pressure Temperature Relationships 3-4-2

Table 3-5-1 Example of a Treatment Schedule 3-5

-4

Table 3-7-1 Number of Sensors in a Warehouse 3-7-1

Table 5-2-1 Pest-Specific Minimum Absorbed Dose (Gy) For Any Approved

Imported

Fruits, Vegetables, and Cut Flowers, and Fruits, Veg-

etables, and Cut Flowers Moved Interstate from Hawaii, Puerto

Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands 5-2-25

Tables

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual LOT-3

Table 5-4-1 Fumigation Treatment Options for Khapra Beetle Infested

Material 5

-4-12

Table 6-2-1 Vacuum Chamber Classification Table 6-2-4

Table 6-2-2 Chamber Checklist 6-2-6

Table 6-3-1 Chamber Checklist 6-3-1

Table 6-4-1 Number of Temperature Sensors per Compartment 6-4-6

Table 6-4-2 Number of Temperature Sensors in a Warehouse 6-4-1

Table 6-5-1 Hypothetical Certification Results: Treatment Tank with Multiple

Set Points 6-5-3

Table A-1 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 429A and PPQ Form

429

B A-1-15

Table A-2 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 519, Compliance

Agree

ment A-1-18

Table A-3 Distribution of PPQ Form 519, Compliance Agreement A-1-

Table A-4 Instructions for Initiating an EAN A-1-22

Table A-5 Instructions for Completing PPQ Form 449-R A-1

-31

Table A-6 Determine Paperwork to Be Presented upon Arrival of a Pre-

cleared

Commodity A-1-

Table A-7 Distribution of PPQ Form 203, Foreign Site Certificate of Inspec-

tion and

/or Treatment A-1-34

Table C-1 Conversion Tables C-1-1

Table D-1 Hyperlinks to Lists of Certif

ied Treatment Facilities, Vessels,

and Containers D-1-1

Table E-1 Cylinder Tare, Net, and Gross Weights E-1-25

Table E-2 DC Scientific Glass - Approved Thermometers E-1-45

Table E-3 Fisher Scientific - Approved Thermometers E-1-46

Table E-4 VWR - Approved Thermometers E-1

-46

Table E-5 Cole-Parmer - Approved Thermometers E-1-47

Table F-1 Crop Group 1: Root and Tuber F-1

-2

Table F-2 Crop Group 2: Leaves of Root and Tuber Vegetables F-1

-3

Table F-3 Crop Group 3: Bulb Vegetable (Allium spp.) F-1

-4

Table F-4 Crop Group 4: Leafy Vegetables (except Brassica

vegetab

les) F-1-5

Table F-5 Crop Group 5: Brassica (Cole) Leafy Vegetables F-1

-6

Table F-6 Crop Group 6: Legume Vegetables (succulent or dried) F-1

-7

Table F-7 Crop Group 7: Leaves of Legume Vegetables F-1-8

Table F-8 Crop Group 8: Fruiting Vegetables F-1-9

Table F-9 Crop Group 9: Cucurbit Vegetables F-1-10

Table F-10 Crop Group 10: Citrus Fruit F

-1-11

Table F-11 Crop Group 11: Pome Fruit F-1

-12

Table F-12 Crop Group 12: Stone Fruit F-1-1

Table F-13 Crop Group 13: Berries and Small Fruit F-1-14

Table F-14 Crop Group 14: Tree Nuts F-1-16

Table F-15 Crop Group 15: Cereal Grains F-1

-17

Table F-16 Crop Group 16: Forage, Fodder,and Straw of Cereal

Grains F-1

-18

Table F-17 Crop Group 17: Grass, Forage, Fodder, and Hay F-1-19

Tables

LOT-4 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Table F-18 Crop Group 18: Nongrass Animal Feeds (Forage, Fodder,

Straw, and Hay) F-1-20

Table F-19 Crop Group 19: Herbs and Spices F-1-21

Table F-20 Crop Group 20: Oilseed F-1-23

Table F-21 Crop Group 21: Edible Fungi F-1-24

Table F-22 Crop Group 22: Stalk, Stem, and Leaf Petiole Vegetables F-

1-25

Table F-23 Crop Group 23: Tropical and Subtropical Fruit, Edible

Peels F-1-26

Table F-24 Crop Group 23: Tropical and Subtropical Fruit, Edible

Peels F-1-27

Table F-25 Crop Group 23: Tropical and Subtropical Fruit, Edible

Peels F-1-28

Table F-26 Crop Group 23: Tropical and Subtropical Fruit, Edible

Peels F-1-29

Table F-27 Crop Group 24: Tropical and Subtropical Fruit, Inedible

Peels F-1-30

Table F-28 Crop Group 24: Tropical and Subtropical Fruit, Inedible

Peels F-1-31

Table F-29 Crop Group 24: Tropical and Subtropical Fruit, Inedible

Peels F-1-32

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 1-1-1

Chapter

Introduction

Contents

Purpose 1-1-2

Restrictions 1-1-2

Scope 1-1-2

What the Manual Does Not Cover 1-1-3

Users 1-1-4

Related Documents

The following documents are related to this manual:

Agricultural Commodity Import Requirements (ACIR) database

APHIS Safety and Health Manual (internal document only)

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)

Title 7 (Agriculture)

Title 46 (Shipping) Chapter 1, Part 147—Interim Regulations for

Shipboard Fumigation

Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, Rodenticide Act, as amended

Pesticide labels and labeling

Plant Import Manuals

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)



Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Technical

Manual

Application

This manual serves both as a field manual for employees conducting

treatments and as a reference for PPQ officers, program managers, and staff

officers. Under APHIS policy, only certified pesticide applicators may conduct

or monitor treatments. This manual will also serve as a reference for

researching the types of treatments available for imports and to answer

questions from importers, industry, and foreign countries.

Conventions

Conventions are established by custom and are widely recognized and

accepted. Conventions used in this manual are listed below.

Introduction

Conventions

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 1-1-5

Advisories

Advisories are used throughout this manual to bring important information to

your attention. Please carefully review each advisory. The definitions have

been updated as to coincide with the American National Standards Institute

(ANSI) with the goal of making the warnings easy to recognize and

understand, thus limiting the human and dollar cost of foreseeable errors and

accidents.

Boldface

Boldface type is used to emphasize important words throughout this manual.

These words include, but are not limited to: cannot, do not, does not, except,

lacks, must, neither, never, nor, not, only, other than.

Bullets

Bulleted lists indicate that there is no order of priority to the information being

listed.

1 TCIF Guideline, Admonishments (Safety-Related Warning Message), TCIF-99-021 Issue 1, p.4.

DANGER

Danger box is used in the event of imminent risk of death or serious injury.

WARNING

Warning box is used in the event of possible risk of serious injury.

CAUTION

Caution box is used for tasks involving minor to moderate risk of injury.

NOTICE

Notice box is used to alert a reader of important information or Agency policy.

SAFETY

Safety box is used for general instructions or reminders related to safety.

Introduction

Conventions

1-1-6 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Change Bar

A black change bar in the left margin is used to indicate a change appearing on

a revised page.

Chapters

This manual contains the following chapters: Introduction, Chemical

Treatments, Nonchemical Treatments, Residue Monitoring, Treatment

Schedules, Certifying Facilities, Emergency Aid and Safety, Equipment,

Glossary, Appendixes, and Index.

Contents

Every chapter has a table of contents listing only the first- and second-level

headings within the chapter.

Control Data

Control data is located at the top and bottom of each page to help users keep

track of where they are in the manual and be aware of updates to specific

chapters, sections, appendixes, etc., in the manual. At the top of the page is the

chapter title and first-level heading for that page. At the bottom of the page is

the transmittal number (month, year, number), manual title, page number, and

unit responsible for content. To track revisions, use the control data.

Decision Tables

Decision tables are used throughout the manual. The first and middle columns

in each table represent conditions, and the last column represents the action to

be taken after all conditions listed for that row are considered. Begin with the

column headings and move left to right, and if the condition does not apply,

then continue one row at a time until you find the condition that does apply.

Examples

Examples are used to clarify a point by applying it to a real-world situation.

Examples always appear in boxes as a means of visually separating them from

the other information contained on a page.

Table 1-1-1 How to Use Decision Tables

If you:

And if the condition

applies:

Then:

Read this column cell and

row first

Continue in this cell TAKE the action listed in this

cell

Find the previous condition

did not apply, then read this

column cell

Continue in this cell TAKE the action listed in this

cell

Introduction

Conventions

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 1-1-7

Footnotes

Footnotes comment on or cite a reference to text and are referenced by number.

The footnotes used in this manual include general text footnotes, figure

footnotes, and table footnotes.

General text footnotes are located at the bottom of the page.

When space allows, figure and table footnotes are located directly below the

associated figure or table. However, for multi-page tables or tables that cover

the length of a page, footnote numbers and footnote text cannot be listed on

the same page. If a table or figure continues beyond one page, the associated

footnotes will appear on the page following the end of the figure or table.

Heading Levels

Within each chapter and section there are four heading levels. The first-level

heading is indicated by a horizontal line across both left and right columns

with the heading language across the left and right columns directly

underneath. The body text after a first-level heading is located inside the

margined text area, one line after the heading language. The second- and third-

level headings are inside the margined text area with the body text following

underneath. The fourth-level heading is inside the margined text area followed

by a period and leading into the text.

Hypertext Links (Highlighting) to Tables, Figures, and

Headings

Figures, headings, and tables are cross-referenced in the body of the manual

and are highlighted in boldface type. These appear in blue hypertext in the

online manual.

Indentions

Entry requirements which are summarized from CFR’s, import permits, or

policies are indented on the page.

Italics

The following items are italicized throughout the Treatment Manual:

EXAMPLE

Examples are graphically placed boxes within the text as a means of

visually separating information from other information contained on

the page. Examples will always appear in a box.

EXAMPLE

Refer to Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the Treatment

Manual on page 1-1-9 to determine where to report problems with

this manual.

Introduction

Conventions

1-1-8 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Cross-references to headings

Publication names

Scientific names of commodities

Numbering Scheme

A three-level numbering scheme is used in this manual for pages, tables, and

figures. The first number represents the section. The second number represents

the chapter. The third number represents the page, table, or figure. This

numbering scheme allows for easier updating and adding pages without having

to reprint an entire chapter. Dashes are used in page numbering to differentiate

page numbers from decimal points.

Transmittal Number

The transmittal number contains the month, year, and a consecutively-issued

number (beginning with -01 for the first edition and increasing consecutively

for each update to the edition). The transmittal number is only changed when

the specific chapter sections, appendixes, glossary, tables, or index is updated.

If no changes are made, then the transmittal number remains unchanged. The

transmittal number only changes for the entire manual when a new edition is

issued or changes are made to the entire manual.

EXAMPLE

12/2018-14 is the transmittal number for this update and is located in

the control data on the pages in this chapter

12 is the month the update was issued

2018 is the year the update was issued

14 is the number (the original new edition was 01, plus 13 updates)

Introduction

Using the Manual

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 1-1-9

FIFRA Section 18 Treatment Schedules

Treatment schedules which are FIFRA Section 18 Exemptions (such as the

example below) are followed by a “Notice” box to help you determine the

current exemption status.

Using the Manual

Review the contents of this manual to get a feel for the scope of material

covered. Glance through the section you will be using, and familiarize yourself

with the information organization. Use the table of contents to find the

information you need. If the table of contents is not specific enough, use the

index to find the topic and corresponding page number.

Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the Treatment

Manual

Use Table 1-1-3 to determine where to report issues with the Treatment

Manual.

Table 1-1-2 Example of a FIFRA Section 18 Exemption Treatment Schedule

Minimum Concentration Readings (ounces) At:

Temperature

(°F)

Dosage Rage

(lb/1000 ft

)

0.5 hrs 2 hrs 3 hrs 3.5 hrs

90 or above 2 26 19 19 —

80-89 2.5 32 24 24 —

70-79 3 38 29 24 —

60-69 3 38 29 — 24

NOTICE

Do not use this treatment schedule if its FIFRA Section 18 Exemption has expired.

For the current exemption status, call your local State Plant Health Director (SPHD).

Table 1-1-3 Reporting Issues with or Suggestions for the Treatment Manual

If you: Then:

 Are unable to access the

online manual

 Have a suggestion for improv-

ing the format (layout, spelling,

etc.)

CONTACT the PPQ Manuals Unit at 240-529-0350 or

email [email protected]

Disagree with policy, procedures,

or th

e admissibility of a commodity

CONTACT PPQ Import Services Customer Support at

301-851-2046 or 1-877-770-5990 with the reason for

the disagreement and a recommendation

Have a urgent situation requiring

an immediate response

CONTACT a PPQ treatment specialist by e-mail

[email protected]

Introduction

Using the Manual

1-1-10 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Manual Updates

The PPQ Manuals Unit issues and maintains manuals electronically on the

Manuals Unit website. The online manuals contain the most up-to-date

information. Immediate update revisions are distributed via the APHIS

Stakeholder Registry to anyone who has subscribed to receive Treatment

Manual updates. To subscribe to the Stakeholder Registry, register at this

website.

Ordering Additional Manuals and Revisions

Although using the online manuals is the preferred method, APHIS employees

may order hard copies of manuals from the APHIS-MRP Business Services,

Acquisition & Asset Management, Printing, Distribution, Mail, Copier

Solutions (PDMCS). Visit the PDMCS website for detailed information and

printing costs. The Manuals Unit is not responsible for printing costs.

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-1-1

Chapter

Chemical Treatments

Overview

Contents

Overview 2-1-1

Fumigants 2-2-1

Aerosols 2-12-1

Dips 2-13-1

Dusts 2-14-1

Sprays 2-15-1

Introduction

The Chemical Treatments section of this manual is organized by chemicals as

follows:

Fumigants

Aerosols and Micronized Dust

Use the Contents in this section to quickly find the information you need. If the

Contents is not specific enough, then turn to the Index to find the topic and its

page number.

Chemical Treatments Overview

Introduction

2-1-2 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-2-1

Chapter

Chemical Treatments

Fumigants

Contents

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide 2-3-1

Fumigants—Sulfuryl Fluoride 2-10-1

Fumigants—Phosphine 2-11-1

Introduction

Fumigation is the act of releasing and dispersing a toxic chemical so it reaches

the target organism in a gaseous state. Chemicals applied as aerosols, smokes,

mists, and fogs are suspensions of particulate matter in air and are not

fumigants.

The ideal fumigant would have the following characteristics:

Easily and cheaply generated

Easily detected by human senses

Easily diffuses and rapidly penetrates commodity

Harmless to foods and commodities

Highly toxic to the target pest

Inexpensive

Insoluble in water

Nonexplosive

Nonflammable

Nonpersistent

Nontoxic to plants and vertebrates (including humans)

Stable in the gaseous state (will not condense to a liquid)

Unfortunately, no one fumigant has all the above properties, but those used by

APHIS and PPQ have many of these characteristics.

The toxicity of a fumigant depends on the respiration rate of the target

organism. Generally, the lower the temperature, the lower the respiration rate

of the organism which tends to make the pest less susceptible. Fumigation at

lower temperatures requires a higher dosage rate for a longer exposure period

than fumigation at higher temperatures.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants

Monitoring of Quarantine Treatments

2-2-2 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Fumigants vary greatly in their mode of action. Some kill rapidly while others

kill slowly. In sublethal dosages, some fumigants may have a paralyzing effect

on the pest while others will not allow the pest to recover. Some fumigants

have no effect on commodities, while others are detrimental even at low

concentrations. Commodities vary in their sorption of fumigants and in the

effort required to aerate the commodities after fumigation.

Due to the reduction in number of labeled fumigants, there is seldom a choice

in selecting fumigants. When there is a choice, factors such as the commodity

to be treated, pest and stages present, type of structure, and cost should be

considered in selecting a fumigant.

The only authorized fumigants are:

Methyl bromide (MB)

Phosphine (PH) (There are two chemicals used for phosphine: AP–

aluminum phosphide; and MP–magnesium phosphide)

Sulfuryl fluoride (SF) (Vikane)

Much of the information on fumigants is based on MB, with modifications as

needed for the other fumigants.

Monitoring of Quarantine Treatments

Monitoring of program fumigations is performed to ensure that effective

fumigant concentration levels are maintained throughout the treatment to

prevent the introduction of quarantine pests. Quarantine fumigations

employing restricted use pesticides require careful monitoring to assure

efficacy and personal safety, to maintain pesticide residues within acceptable

limits, and to preserve commodity quality. These requirements are included in

the fumigant label, and it is a violation of Federal law to use fumigants and

pesticides in a manner inconsistent with their labeling.

Nonperishable Commodities in Commodities Temporary

Enclosures

PPQ officers will provide onsite monitoring from introduction of the fumigant

through completion of the 2 hour gas concentration readings. Half hour and 2

hour readings are required for these treatments. These readings and general

observations permit the officer to determine how a particular treatment is

progressing and to make necessary corrections to the enclosure or fumigant

concentration level.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants

Monitoring of Quarantine Treatments

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-2-3

Perishable Commodities in Temporary Enclosures

The monitoring officer will remain on the site through the entire fumigation of

perishable commodities. Continuous monitoring allows the officer to alert the

pest control operator at any time to implement necessary corrective measures.

Due to the nature of the commodity and the length of treatment, onsite

monitoring of yam and chestnut fumigations may be interrupted after the 2

hour reading when efficacy and safety considerations warrant.

These instructions do not prevent the officer from leaving the immediate

fumigation site for brief periods when it is necessary and safe to do so. The

pest control operator must be notified of the PPQ officer’s intended absence.

These absences would ordinarily be limited to 20 minutes (e.g., restroom

breaks or a medical condition) and do not constitute a break in service. These

practices are in place in many locations and will require only minor

modifications in other areas.

Fumigation Guidelines

The following fumigation guidelines are commonly used throughout this

manual:

Blowers or fans should be operated as follows:

For all bulk material, forced recirculation is required, check for

uniform gas distribution by taking gas readings at four or five

locations, including at least three from the commodity

For propagative material (T200-series schedules), the entire period of

exposure, whether NAP or vacuum

Under tarpaulin (and vacuum fumigation for other than propagative

material), fans should operate for 30 minutes after gas introduction or

until an APHIS-approved gas detection device indicates uniform gas

distribution

Dosages are listed by weight in the treatment schedules. If liquid measures

are needed, convert from weight to volume using the conversion figures.

Dosage rate is based on 1,000 cubic feet of enclosure space, whether

chamber, tarpaulin, van, freight car, ship hold, etc. Calculate dosage from

the volume of the tarped fumigation enclosure.

All chamber fumigations should be conducted in USDA-approved

chambers. (Refer to Certification of Vacuum Fumigation Chambers on

page 6-2-1 or Certifying Normal Atmospheric Fumigation Chambers on

page 6-3-1.)

NOTICE

Phosphine fumigations do not require fans.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants

Monitoring of Quarantine Treatments

2-2-4 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Methyl bromide treatment schedules are indicated as “MB.” MB generally

refers to any methyl bromide label. Specific MB label restrictions are

noted in this manual for the “Q” label. Always check the label of the

fumigant to be sure the commodity is listed on the label. Commodities

that are not listed on the fumigant’s label are not authorized for

fumigation with the manufacturer’s gas.

Ounces per 1,000 cubic feet (oz/1,000 ft

) is equal to milligrams per liter

(mg/liter) and is equal to grams per cubic meter (g/m

Specified vacuum should be held throughout the exposure period

Volume of commodity being treated should not exceed two-thirds of

enclosure volume unless otherwise specified in the treatment schedule

Chemical Treatments Fumigants

Physical Properties of Fumigants

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-2-5

Physical Properties of Fumigants

Table 2-2-1 summarizes the properties of fumigants:

Table 2-2-1 Properties of Gaseous Phases of Fumigants

Properties Methyl bromide Phosphine Sulfuryl fluoride

Chemical Formula CH

Br PH

Boiling Point 3.6 °C (38.5 °F) -87.7 °C (-125.9 °F) -55.2 °C (-67 °F)

Vapor Density

1 Vapor density is the weight of gas in air, with ‘1’ as the weight of air.

3.3 1.17 3.7

Flammability

Limits in Air (v/v%)

10-15 percent by

volume

>1.79 percent by

volume

Nonflammable

Odor Odorless Garlic-like Odorless

Effects on Metals Reacts with aluminum,

may damage electronic

equipment

Copper, brass, gold,

and silver severely

damaged; electronic

equipment damaged,

other metals slightly

affected in high

humidity.

Non-corrosive

Chemical Treatments Fumigants

Physical Properties of Fumigants

2-2-6 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-3-1

Chapter

Chemical Treatments

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Contents

Properties and Use 2-3-1

Section 18 Exemption Treatment Schedules 2-3-2

Leak Detection and Gas Analysis 2-3-5

Effects of Temperature and Humidity 2-3-8

Packaging Materials Approved for Fumigation 2-3-8

Sorption 2-3-10

Residual Effect 2-3-11

Properties and Use

Methyl bromide (MB) (CH

Br) is a colorless, odorless, nonflammable

fumigant. MB boils at 38.5 °F and has a very low solubility in water. As a gas,

MB is three times heavier than air. As a liquid at 32 °F, 1 pound of MB is

equivalent to 262 ml. For ease in transportation and handling, MB is

compressed and stored in metal cylinders as a liquid.

MB is an effective fumigant for treating a wide variety of plant pests associated

with a wide variety of commodities. MB is the most frequently used fumigant

in quarantine fumigations. MB may also be used to devitalize plant material.

MB is effective in treating the following pests:

Fungi (such as oak wilt fungus)

Insects (all life stages)

Mites and ticks (all life stages)

Nematodes (including cysts)

Snails and slugs

MB is effective over a wide range of temperatures (40 °F and above). In

general, living plant material tolerates the dosage rate specified, although the

degree of tolerance varies with species, variety, stage of growth, and condition

of the plant material. MB accelerates the decomposition of plants in poor

condition.

Since MB is three times heavier than air, it diffuses outward and downward

readily, but requires fans to ensure upward movement and equal gas

distribution. Fan circulation also enhances penetration of MB into the

commodity. A volatilizer is used to heat the liquid MB in order to speed up its

Chapter

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Section 18 Exemption Treatment Schedules

2-3-2 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

conversion to a gas. Once the gas is evenly distributed, it maintains that

condition for the duration of the treatment unless an outside event such as

excessive leakage occurs.

Section 18 Exemption Treatment Schedules

Methyl bromide fumigants, except those with “Q” labels, may be subject to

requirements of the FIFRA Section 18 Quarantine Exemption. When

commodities intended for food or feed are fumigated with methyl bromide

under the FIFRA Section 18 Quarantine Exemption, one additional EPA

requirement must be met: PPQ must monitor aeration by sampling the gas

concentration to determine when a commodity may be released.

The EPA defines a Federal quarantine exemption (40 CFR 166.2(b)) as “A

quarantine exemption may be authorized in an emergency condition to control

the introduction or spread of any pest new to or not theretofore known to be

widely prevalent or distributed within and throughout the United States and its

territories.”

The Section 18 Exemption has been amended to permit treatment of

commodities that are at risk for carrying Federal quarantine pests. This means

that treatments are permitted not only for imported commodities, but also for

domestic commodities growing in areas under quarantine for a regulated pest.

This exemption does not authorize treatments of domestically grown

commodities for export certification unless the treatment is necessary to move

the commodity out of quarantine, i.e. the target pests must be Federally

regulated pests.

In the Agriculture Commodity Import Requirements (ACIR) Treatment Tile

treatment schedules, fumigation schedules under the FIFRA Section 18

Quarantine Exemption are preempted by a “NOTICE” box to help determine

the current exemption status.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Section 18 Exemption Treatment Schedules

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-3-3

Table 2-3-1 is a list of commodities covered by the FIFRA Section 18

exemption. This list will expire on March 03, 2026.

Table 2-3-1 List of Commodities Covered by FIFRA Section 18 Exemption

Commodity

Minimum

Temperature

(°F)

Maximum

Dosage

Range

(lb/1000 ft3)

Exposure

Period

(hours)

Avocado 70 4 4

Banana and Plantain 40 4 2

Banana leaf 40 4 2

Blueberry and unlabeled commodities from the berry and small fruit

crop group 13-07

40 4 4

Cacti, edible (includes Opuntia)4043.5

Citrus fruit (crop group 10) 40 3 2

Coffee bean (green, unroasted) 40 9 12

Coconut (unprocessed, whole coconut without husk) 60 2.5 2

Cottonseed (for animal feed) 40 7 24

40 5 48

Cucurbit seed (unprocessed) 40 9 12

Dasheen (root and tuber) 40 4 4

Dragon fruit, Yellow dragon fruit (pitaya or pitahaya)

40 4 2

Flowers, squash and loroco 40 4 2

Genip (Spanish lime) 40 4 4

Herbs and spices, fresh (crop group 19) 40 4 4

Ivy gourd 40 4 2

Kaffir lime leaves 40 4 2

Kola nut (cola) 40 6 6

Longan 40 4 2

Lychee fruit 40 4 2

Mango 40 4 2

Mint, dried 40 3 24

Mint, fresh 40 4 2

Oilseed (crop group 20) 40 9 12

Persimmon 40 4 2

Pomegranate, fresh 40 4 3

Pointed gourd 40 4 2

Rambutan 60 4 2

Seeds in the family Malvaceae for food use, including hibiscus and

kenaf seed

40 3.5 2

Unlabeled commodities in the leaves of legume vegetable crop

group 7

40 4 2.5

Unlabeled commodities in the root and tuber crop group 1

50 3 3.5

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Section 18 Exemption Treatment Schedules

2-3-4 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

The EPA only authorizes fumigation of commodities if they are listed on the

label of the gas being used for the fumigation. The fumigator is responsible for

ensuring that the commodity, its dosage, and the treatment duration is listed

either on the product label or within the Section 18 authorization letter, which

the PPQ officer should have readily available for any fumigator who requests

it. The methyl bromide products that fumigators are authorized to use for

Section 18 treatments are identified within the Section 18 authorization letter.

To comply with State requirements, the fumigator is responsible for ensuring

that the fumigant is registered in the State where it is being used.

Fumigation schedules in this publication are more detailed than what is

provided in commercial labels in order to ensure that the phytosanitary

treatments of imported commodities are efficacious.

When the treatment schedule is marked "MB", any methyl bromide fumigant

may be used for the fumigation as long as the commodity, its dosage, and

treatment duration are on the fumigant label.

Unlabeled commodities in the stone fruit crop group (12-12)

(i.e.,

pluot, plumcot, aprium, cherrycot, peachcot)

40 4 3

Unlabeled commodities from the Bulb Vegetable Crop Group (3-07)

40 4 4

Unlabeled commodities in the stalk, stem, and leaf petiole crop

group (22)

40 4 3.5

Unlabeled commodities in the following crop groups:

 Brassica leafy vegetables (crop group 5)

 Cucurbit vegetables (crop group 9)

 Edible podded legume vegetables (crop group 6A)

 Fruiting vegetable (crop group 8-10)

 Leafy vegetables (except Brassica) (crop group 4)

 Leaves of roots and tubers (i.e., chicory) (crop group 2)

 Tropical and subtropical fruit, edible peel (crop group 23)

 Tropical and subtropical fruit, inedible peel (crop group 24)

40 4 2

1 Refer to the document Ecuador Dragon Fruit, Yellow Dragon Fruit, Pitahaya, Pitaya Fruit Admissible into Continental United

States for more information.

The EPA crop groups are listed in Appendix F on page F-1-1 for quick reference. Refer to 40 CFR 180.41 Crop Group Tables

for the official list of commodities within

each crop group. All commodities included in the EPA sub-groups of each EPA crop

group are also eligible for the FIFRA Section 18 exemption fumigation.

Table 2-3-1 List of Commodities Covered by FIFRA Section 18 Exemption (continued)

Commodity

Minimum

Temperature

(°F)

Maximum

Dosage

Range

(lb/1000 ft3)

Exposure

Period

(hours)

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Leak Detection and Gas Analysis

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-3-5

Leak Detection and Gas Analysis

Require the fumigator to use an APHIS-approved gas detection device to

measure gas concentration levels in tarpaulins. Require the fumigator to use an

APHIS-approved leak detection device primarily to check for leaks around

tarpaulins, chambers, application equipment, and as a safety device around the

fumigation site. For a partial list of manufacturers of detection devices, refer to

Reference Guide to Commercial Suppliers of Treatment and Related Safety

Equipment on page E-1-1. Colorimetric tubes, which are supplied by the

fumigator, are used to measure gas concentration levels during aeration.

2016 Methyl Bromide Label Information

In 2015, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) directed all methyl

bromide (MB) registrants to amend the use directions on the labels of all 100%

MB products. EPA required the changes in order to reflect recommendations in

an EPA report.

These amendments modify the use directions for fumigation and aeration

procedures, modify respiratory requirements and equipment and update gas

monitoring equipment. EPA requires all labels on newly manufactured MB to

reflect these recommendations effective October 01, 2016; however, EPA is

allowing existing stocks of MB to be used in accordance with the use

directions on the existing stock’s (older) labels.

PPQ officials and fumigators must closely examine gas cylinder labels in order

to validate that the dosage, exposure, and commodity are either on the cylinder

label or covered by a FIFRA Section 18 exemption. If a label is not affixed to

the cylinder, DO NOT allow the fumigator to use that cylinder.

1 “Report of Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) Tolerance Reassessment and Risk Management

Decision (TRED) for methyl bromide, and Reregistration Eligibility Decision (RED) for Methyl

Bromide’s Commodity Uses”, archive dated August 2006.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

2016 Methyl Bromide Label Information

2-3-6 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

New Buffer Zone Requirements

All 2016 MB labels now require both a treatment and an aeration buffer zone.

Both the treatment and aeration buffer zones are specific to the enclosure being

fumigated and must be determined by tables in the Environmental Protection

Agency (EPA) Methyl Bromide Commodity Fumigation Buffer Zone Lookup

Tables. The fumigators are responsible for using this website to determine the

buffer zones and reporting both buffer zones to the PPQ official. If the

treatment buffer zone is determined to be less than 30 feet, the PPQ official

will maintain PPQ’s standard 30 foot treatment buffer zone; otherwise, the new

treatment buffer zone must be observed. If the aeration buffer zone is

determined to be less than 200 feet, then PPQ’s standard “200 feet for 10

minutes” aeration buffer zone still applies for the first 10 minutes of aeration.

The fumigator must refer to EPA’s website to determine the minimum aeration

buffer zone to be maintained until the aeration period is complete and the

fumigator has verified that gas concentration levels meet the conditions in the

MB label.

Transiting through buffer zones

The label permits vehicles to transit through both treatment and aeration buffer

zones under specific conditions found in the label; it is up to the fumigator

determine how or whether vehicles may transit in accordance with the label.

When using the newer 2016 MB label, changes to certain procedures and

equipment in this chapter are displayed in a NOTICE box with a heading titled

“MB 2016 Label”.

MB 2016 Label (example)

When using existing stocks, follow the equipment and procedural guidance

that is displayed in the body of the text (outside of the NOTICE box).

If there is no “MB 2016 Label” NOTICE box, then the instructions apply to all

MB labels, 2016 and older.

NOTICE

Use this information when the fumigator is using the 2016 MB label.



Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

2016 Methyl Bromide Label Information

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-3-7

MB 2016 Label

NOTICE

The PPQ official and the fumigator must use the following leak detection and

gas analysis equipment:

An air purifying NIOSH certified half-mask or full face piece respirator

when gas concentrations are between 1 and 5 ppm

A self contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) NIOSH approved prefix

TC-13F when gas concentrations are 5 ppm or above

An APHIS-approved continuous real time gas monitoring device that is

permanently mounted in PPQ owned facilities or a portable

photoionization detector to monitor gas concentrations in the breathing

space

An APHIS-approved direct read gas detection device, such as colorimetric

tubes, to determine gas concentrations when aerating and releasing the

commodity

For a list of manufacturers and approved models refer to Reference Guide to

Commercial Suppliers of Treatment and Related Safety Equipment.

PPQ policy is to wear appropriate respiratory protection when air

concentrations are above 1 ppm. However, the new MB labels allow workers to

be present without respiratory protection for specific time limits over a 24-

hour period when air concentrations are:>3 to 5 ppm (90 minutes),

>2 to 3 ppm (160 minutes),

>1 to 2 ppm (4 hours), and

>0 to 1 ppm (8 hours).

These permissible work-time allowances will give the PPQ official sufficient

time to calmly locate and don the appropriate respiratory protection should

their PID (alarm set to go off at 1 ppm) indicate the presence of MB in the air.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Effects of Temperature and Humidity

2-3-8 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Effects of Temperature and Humidity

MB is effective at the same temperatures plants are generally handled (usually

40 °F and above). In general, increases in temperature give a corresponding

increase in the effectiveness of MB. All treatment schedule temperatures are

listed with the corresponding dosage rate. Follow the dosage rates listed. A

Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) Section 3

registration (the labeled rate of MB provided), or a Section 18 Exemption must

be in effect at the time of treatment.

For live plant material which is actively growing or with leaves, maintain a

high percentage of humidity (above 75 percent) in the chamber by placing wet

sphagnum or excelsior in the chamber or by wetting the chamber walls and

floor. Protect actively growing or delicate plants from the direct air flow of

fans. Do not add any moisture to the chamber when fumigating seeds. Too

much moisture on the material to be fumigated may prevent the fumigant from

reaching some of the pests.

Packaging Materials Approved for Fumigation

Plastic wrappings such as cellophane, films, and shrink wrap, and papers that

are waxed, laminated, or waterproofed are not readily permeable and must be

perforated, removed, or opened before fumigation. Approved packaging

materials may be layered as long as perforations allow adequate MB

penetration.

Packaging is considered either “routine” or “non-routine”. Routine packaging

does not require S&T approval. Routine packaging is packaging that can be

visually confirmed that it meets one of the following criteria:

Dry cloth

Dry, non-waxed or non-painted cardboard

Dry, non-waxed or non-painted, non-glossy paper

Dry, woven fabrics and plastics

Woven polypropylene bags that are not laminated with plastic or paper

inside or out (these bags are typically used for holding seeds or grains)

Bags containing large quantity of seeds or grains (>2,000 lbs.) are

referred to as “super sacks” or “totes” and must have the top of the bag

opened to aid in fumigant dispersal and aeration

NOTICE

PPQ is not responsible for opening or perforating the wrapping.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Packaging Materials Approved for Fumigation

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-3-9

Perforated plastics with evenly distributed holes on all sides and 0.93

percent open area of surface, for example:

Holes that are 3/16-inch in diameter every 3 square inches

Holes that are 1/4-inch in diameter every 4 square inches

49+ pinholes per square inch

Plastic clamshells

Evenly distributed holes on all sides and 0.93 percent open area of

surface

Holes on top and bottom must not be blocked when clamshells are

stacked (i.e., clamshells must have recesses or ridges to prevent

blockage)

Wooden boxes (lids removed if tightly sealed)

Non-routine packaging must be approved by S&T. Contact [email protected]

for specifications for approval. Refer to Packaging—Non-Routine USDA-

Approved For Fumigation on page E-28 for a list of approved non-routine

packaging manufacturers.

If the commodity is undergoing fumigation, the consignment can be rejected

because of packaging.

NOTICE

Inform prospective importers that the wrappings on their shipments may have to be

perforated according to PPQ specifications, removed, or opened if PPQ requires

fumigation. 



To expedite commodity movement, importers should send a complete bag/wrap

sample to S&T-TMT for approval.



USDA-APHIS-PPQ-S&T-TMT

13601 Old Cutler Road, Bldg. 63

Miami, FL 33158 USA

Phone: 305-278-4877

Email: [email protected]

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Sorption

2-3-10 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Sorption

Sorption is the process of chemically or physically binding free MB on or

within the fumigated commodity. Sorption makes the fumigant unavailable to

kill the plant pest. There are three types of sorption—absorption, adsorption,

and chemisorption. Sorption rate is high at first, then gradually reduces to a

slow rate. Sorption increases the time required for aeration.

Commodities known or believed to be highly sorptive should not be fumigated

in chambers unless concentration readings can be taken to ensure the required

minimum concentration is met. Additional readings may be necessary in order

to properly monitor gas concentration sorptive commodities in chambers.

For tarpaulin fumigation, additional gas readings are necessary to monitor

concentration of gas to determine the rate of sorption. The following is a partial

list of commodities known to be highly sorptive:

Burlap bales

Carpet backing

Cinnamon quills

Cocoa mats

Cotton

Flour and finely milled products

Gall nuts

Hardboard (Masonite™)

Incense

Myrobalan

Pistachio nuts

Polyamide waste

Polystyrene foam (Styrofoam)

Potato starch

Rubber (crepe or crude)

Vermiculite

Wood products (unfinished)

Wool (raw, except pulled)

Contact S&T-TMT if you are concerned about the sorptive properties of other

commodities.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Residual Effect

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-3-11

Residual Effect

MB may adversely affect the shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables, the

viability of dormant and actively growing plants, and the germination of seed.

Although MB may adversely affect some commodities, it is a necessary risk in

order to control pests. Some dosage rates are near the maximum tolerance of

the commodity, so care must be exercised in choosing the proper treatment

schedule and applying the treatment.

MB may also adversely affect nonplant products. In general, articles with a

high sulfur content may develop “off-odors” on contact with MB. In some

commodities the odors are difficult or impossible to remove by aeration. If

possible or practical, remove from the area to be fumigated any items that are

likely to develop an undesirable odor.

The following items should not be fumigated:

Any commodity not listed on the label or lacking a FIFRA Section 18

exemption

Any commodity lacking a treatment schedule

Automobiles

Baking powder

Blueprints

Bone meal

Butter, lard, or fats, unless in airtight containers

Charcoal (highly sorptive)

Cinder blocks or mixed concrete and cinder blocks

CO

scrubbers

(calcium hydroxide and calcium carbonate; MAXtend

)

EPDM rubber (ethylene propylene diene M-class; a type of synthetic

rubber)

Electronic equipment

Ethylene absorbers (potassium permanganate sachets used to remove

ethylene from an enclosure, usually a container loaded with fruit)

Feather pillows

2 If the scrubbers are removed prior to fumigation, the consignment may be fumigated.

3 Electronic equipment may be fumigated, as long as it is properly sealed to protect against internal

fluid contamination by the MB gas. Ensure that the liquid MB is completely volatilized before it is

introduced into the area to be fumigated. Obtain a waiver from the importer agreeing to release the

USDA from any damages.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide

Residual Effect

2-3-12 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01

Felt

Furs

High-protein flours (soybean, whole wheat, peanut)

Horsehair articles

Leather goods

Machinery with milled surfaces

Magazines and newspapers (made of wood pulp)

Magnesium articles (subject to corrosion)

Paper with high rag or sulfur content

Photographic chemicals and prints (not camera film or X-rays)

Polyurethane foam

Natural rubber goods, particularly sponge rubber, foam rubber, and

reclaimed rubber including pillows, mattresses, rubber stamps, and

upholstered furniture

Neoprene

Rug pads

Silver polishing papers

Woolens (especially angora), soft yarns, and sweaters; viscose rayon

fabrics

Yak rugs

02/2024-01 Treatment Manual 2-4-1

Chapter

Chemical Treatments

Fumigants—Methyl Bromide—Tarpaulin

Fumigation

Contents

Methods and Procedures 2-4-1

2016 Methyl Bromide Label Information 2-4-2

Materials Needed 2-4-3

PPQ Official Provides 2-4-3

Fumigator Provides 2-4-4

Preparing to Fumigate 2-4-6

Conducting the Fumigation 2-4-27

Special Procedures for Adding Gas and Extending Exposure Period 2-4-33

Adding Gas and Extending Exposure Period to Commodities that are

Fumigated Using Treatment Schedules Other Than T101-a-1 or Equivalent

(may include perishables) 2-4-33

Adding Gas to Fruits, Vegetables, or Perishable Commodities Using

Schedule T101-a-1 or Equivalent 2-4-34

Aeration 2-4-38

Responsibility for Aerating the Commodity 2-4-38

Aeration Buffer Zones 2-4-39

Wearing Respiratory Protection 2-4-39

Aerating Nonsorptive, Containerized Cargo—Indoors and Outdoors 2-4-40

Aerating Nonsorptive, Noncontainerized Cargo—Indoors and Outdoors

2-4-41

Aeration Procedures for Fresh Fruits, Vegetables, and Cut Flowers—Indoors

or Outdoors 2-4-43

Aerating Sorptive, Noncontainerized Cargo—Indoors and Outdoors 2-4-45

Aerating Sorptive Commodities in Containers—Indoors and Outdoors

2-4-47

Methods and Procedures

The procedures in this section provide PPQ officials and commercial

fumigators with the methods, responsibilities, and precautions for tarpaulin

fumigations.

Chemical Treatments Fumigants—Methyl Bromide—Tarpaulin Fumigation

2016 Methyl Bromide Label Information

2-4-2 Treatment Manual 02/2024-01